Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is broken, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces, which should come off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still intact.
The remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the wintertime. This is usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation persists you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.
A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last resort. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be dealt with by an expert.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You can reduce your energy bill.
Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is often possible to fix this problem. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your case.
A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to remove moisture and form an airtight seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and will not prevent the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair. All of our traders are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear distorted. When window repairs near me fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog may be re-applied.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option in the event you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. It's best to select a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you might face are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.